Tuesday, January 08, 2008

The Business of Being Born Film

I was recently asked to pass on some information about a new film that's coming out called The Business of Being Born. And as I am sure it will with you, this film's synopsis evoked many feelings the whole birthing process in the United States. Both of my kids were born in the hospital and I thought and still think it was the best decision I made for their births. Also with both of my deliveries, Pitocin was administered and increased periodically through my labor (very long with Ashley, very short with Audrey).

But I know many people disagree with this, and I have seen way too many A Baby Story shows on TLC showing Moms giving birth in various locations - birth centers, at home, or in the hospital to make me wonder what it would have been like somewhere else.

In the film, Executive Producer Ricki Lake and Director Abby Epstein question the way American women have babies, and explore this fundamental question: should most births be viewed as a natural life process, or should every delivery be treated as a potential medical emergency? The Business of Being Born makes a compelling argument for more humanistic approaches to birth.

I am a big believer that everyone should have the kind of birth experience they think they want (not that any of us can control it - its kinda totally up to the baby). That said, I am a "the more medical help the better" kind of momma. I was induced with my first, endedup with a c-section after a short labor (7 hours) that was SUPER easy to recover from. I had 2 planned c-sections after that, and do NOT regret it for a single instant. I am so happy with my choice. But I also know several who were frustrated with their birthing experiences. I think its a very personal choice and people should be free to make that choice and not feel bad one way or the other.